Early Childhood

Our smallest learners ask big questions as they begin building a foundation of genuine academic curiosity.

EXPLORE Academics

At Portledge, we believe in the gift of childhood! Guided by the Reggio Emilia philosophy of Early Childhood Education, we respect children’s right to play, discover, collaborate, construct, and experience joyful learning. We are inspired by the spark in their eyes, huge smiles, warm embraces, exuberant moments, and the curiosity children bring to school daily. Our Early Childhood program is designed around children, and our units of study are influenced by the student’s interests, questions, and passions.
 
The classroom and specials teachers collaborate to offer children various deep, meaningful learning opportunities. We understand that children thrive when they feel safe, loved, understand the routine and structure of the day, and when they are given space to explore, experiment, and wonder.

List of 1 frequently asked questions.

  • What to expect from the Portledge Early Childhood Program

    • a robust curriculum and program that is designed to fully prepare your child for Kindergarten and beyond. Our students not only learn the basic skills and knowledge they will need for elementary school success, but they also develop independence, social skills, and problem-solving skills that build the foundation for life success.
    • A program that values play and outdoor learning opportunities. Our 63-acre campus is our second classroom and lends itself to natural exploration and learning.
    • Small class sizes in an intimate and family-like setting.
    • Safety is a priority at Portledge and our security personnel greets families at the entrance of campus and the Lower School Building.
    • Teachers who are invested in your child’s well-being and growth. Your child will be known by all the adults in the building, administrators, specials teachers, nurse, and cafeteria staff.

      Teachers that will actively partner with you to guide your child on a path of purposeful learning. The teachers will take the time to get to know your family, and your child including their interests, strengths, challenges, fears, and hopes. As a parent, you will receive two report cards yearly, two scheduled parent-teacher conferences, and documentation of the child’s learning and growth.
The wider the range of possibilities we offer children, the more intense will be their motivations and the richer their experiences
Loris Malaguzzi

Early Childhood Sample Schedule

Winter 2024-2025 Parent & Child Sessions

Early Childhood Curriculum

Contacts

List of 3 members.

  • Photo of Leigh DeMaria

    Leigh DeMaria 

    Portledge School
    Director of Early Childhood
    (516) 750-3224
  • Photo of Saralyn Lawn

    Saralyn Lawn 

    Portledge School
    Division Director - Lower School
    (516) 750-3134
  • Photo of Lauren Domaradzki

    Lauren Domaradzki 

    Portledge School
    Assistant Director of Lower School / Lower School Dean of Students
    (516) 750-3195

Early Childhood Hours

Pre-Nursery: 8:45 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. 
Nursery: 8:45 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Extended Day Options for Nursery:
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. (Lunch Bunch)
12:00 p.m. - 3:15 p.m.
Pre-Kindergarten: 8:45 a.m. - 3:15 p.m.

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*NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATORY POLICY AS TO STUDENTS
Portledge School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. This policy applies to, but is not limited to, educational policies, admission, financial aid, hiring and employment practices, use of school facilities, athletics, and other school-administered programs.
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